Happy Birthday Celia Cruz!

Celia Cruz was born on October 21, 1925 in Havana, Cuba. She was one of the most successful salsa singers and performers of the 20th century, with twenty-three gold albums to her name. She was renowned internationally as the “Queen of Salsa” as well as “La Guarachera de Cuba“. Sadly Celia Cruz died in Frot Lee, New Jersey on July 16, 2003 of brain cancer.

“In February 2004, Cruz’s latest album Regalo del Alma, won a posthumous award at the Premios Lo Nuestro for best Salsa release of the year. It was announced in December 2005 that a musical called “Assuca” would open in Tenerife before touring the world. The name comes from Cruz’s well-known catch phrase of “¡Azúcar!” (wikipedia.org)

With all the awards, albums and legendary collaborations , Celia remains popular within the community. Below is a one of my favorites songs and performances in collaberation Tito Puente. I am honored to have lived to witness such a great talent to our music.

Pa’lante Latino is dedicated to the movement of our people. Questions and/or suggestions can be emailed to palanteforward@gmail.com
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